Positioning and pre-application
• Select a location that is not enclosed or
surrounded by metal that may interfere
with reception. If placing the antenna on
a metal fly bridge, make sure the antenna
protrudes at least 5" above the bridge’s
top edge. Antenna extensions are available
to increase the height above the boat.
(e.g. Shakespeare 5228-4. Several lengths
are available from multiple suppliers,
including Boaters World and West Marine.)
• The antenna should be placed in a location
with at least a 20-degree clearance from
any metallic obstruction on all sides.
(See figure 5.)
• Once you have a desired antenna location,
plan how to route the antenna cable from
this location to the receiver, avoiding blocked
passages and any obstructions that could
kink, crimp, twist, or chafe the cable.
Final installation
1. Turn off all audio systems and other
electrical devices. Disconnect the
(-) negative lead from the boat’s battery.
2. Verify that the antenna is in its final
desired location.
3. Install the mounting bracket as shown in
figure 6. First, hold the bracket in the
desired position and mark the holes
for drilling.
4. Drill 7/64" starter holes. Applying masking
tape over the area to be drilled will help
reduce splintering of the gelcoat and
fiberglass.
5. Secure the bracket with the four stainless
screws provided.
6. To provide a finished look, apply a small
bead of white silicone around the bracket’s
bottom edge.
6
Figure 5. Correct and incorrect locations to mount
the antenna.
Clear Signals
Correct
20° Clearance
Incorrect
Blocked Signals
